JUMPING JIVE pursued the globalization of VLBI in the era of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). The SKA will be the most powerful radio telescope in the world. JUMPING JIVE was instrumental in the implementation of SKA-VLBI and the definition of its science cases.

JUMPING JIVE through a direct liaison with the SKA engineers and scientists was fundamental to guide the successful design and definition of the requirements and interfaces for the SKA-VLBI.

JUMPING JIVE also developed a possible operational model for SKA-VLBI and based on that, initial steps have been taken to form a Global VLBI Alliance as well as a SKA VLBI Consortium (to develop a partnership for an operational SKA-VLBI array).

JUMPING JIVE supported the VLBI science working group for the elaboration of the portfolio of SKA-VLBI science cases. This culminated in the presentation of an Engineering Change Proposal for the alignment of the VLBI requirements with the actual design of the VLBI capability. Its successful approval by the SKA Project in November 2020 allows the realisation of most science cases.

The actions carried out by JUMPING JIVE will have a profound impact on the community.  Besides supporting VLBI, the JUMPING JIVE SKA-VLBI scientist also participated in the critical design reviews, directly contributing to the success of the SKA Construction Proposal, and to the SKA becoming an established Observatory in 2021. 

Deliverables

• D10.1: Details on VLBI interfaces to SKA consortia
• D10.2: Operational plan for inclusion of SKA in Global VLBI
• D10.3: Portfolio of SKA-VLBI Science cases with details on science requirements
• D10.4: Report on SKA-VLBI Key Science Projects